Development and primary bioinformatics analysis of ‘Mishi Paanak’ – An Ayurveda-inspired cooling drink

Abstract

Background: Seasonal variations significantly impact human physiology, with Grishma Ritu (summer) specifically associated with excessive heat and dehydration, particularly in hot geoclimatic regions like India. This leads to an increase in Pitta dosha and a heightened risk of heat-related health issues. Ayurveda emphasizes the consumption of sweet, cold, liquid, and unctuous foods to maintain physiological balance and prevent dehydration during intense summers. Inspired by these traditional principles, Mishi Paanak is developed as a novel, Ayurveda-inspired natural summer coolant to provide hydration, restore energy, and soothe the effects of summer heat. Materials and Methods: Mishi Paanak recipe is formulated using fennel seeds (Mishi, Foeniculum vulgare Mill.), poppy seeds (Papaver somniferum), watermelon juice (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai), and Khanda Sharkara (rock candy), prepared with water. A network pharmacology-based approach was adopted to justify the role of these ingredients and understand their mode of action. Results: Phytochemical analysis identified 20 common compounds shared across the three main ingredients, including quercetin, kaempferol, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, nicotinic acid, and thiamine. The study identified 65 common genes between the phytochemical targets and dehydration-related gene sets. Ten top hub genes were isolated through Cytohubba analysis: KDR, ESR2, AKT1, IGF1R, MMP9, PTK2, SRC, MMP2, PPARG, and EGFR1929. These genes collectively target 37 most common pathways responsible for dehydration. Mechanistic insights reveal that key phytochemicals like quercetin and kaempferol modulate anti-inflammatory pathways (AKT1, MMP9), linoleic and linolenic acids influence epidermal hydration (PPARG, EGFR), and citrulline enhances vasodilation via nitric oxide. Conclusion: Mishi Paanak is presented as an effective natural Ayurveda-inspired summer coolant designed to combat the effects of excessive heat and dehydration during Grishma Ritu. The beverage offers easy preparation, cost-effectiveness, and aligns with Ayurvedic principles, making it a healthy alternative to aerated and processed beverages. The network pharmacology analysis scientifically validates that this combination of herbs and the drink prepared positively impacts dehydration pathways, demonstrating novel design and synergistic effects at the molecular level.